Cardigan and Sweater in King Cole Big Value Super Chunky - 4361 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan and Sweater Knitting Pattern – King Cole Big Value Super Chunky 4361

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern (Leaflet 4361) from King Cole provides instructions for two classic knitwear designs: a cardigan and a sweater, both knitted in King Cole Big Value Super Chunky yarn. The pattern covers a generous size range of 71/76 cm to 112/117 cm (28/30 in to 44/46 in), making it suitable for a wide variety of adult figures. Rated as an intermediate level project, this pattern is ideal for knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple lace techniques and are ready to take their skills a step further with a satisfying, quick-to-knit super chunky make.

As a bonus, King Cole donates to the Pink Ribbon Foundation for every pattern purchased, so buying this leaflet supports a worthwhile charitable cause.

About the Yarn and Needles

King Cole Big Value Super Chunky is the specified yarn for both designs in this pattern. As a super chunky weight yarn, it knits up quickly on large needles, making these garments a rewarding project that progresses fast. The pattern calls for 10mm (US 15) knitting needles as the primary needle size, with 8mm needles used for the ribbed and garter stitch edgings and borders. Knitters are reminded that achieving the correct tension is essential and should adjust needle size accordingly.

Tension

• Lace pattern: 9 stitches and 14 rows to 10 cm (4 in) using 10mm needles
• Stocking stitch: 10 stitches and 14 rows to 10 cm (4 in) using 10mm needles

Knitters are advised to check their tension swatch carefully before beginning. If fewer stitches than stated are achieved over 10 cm, switch to a finer needle; if more stitches are achieved, switch to a larger needle.

Design One: The Cardigan

The cardigan is a structured, front-opening garment worked in pieces and seamed. Construction begins with the Left Front, which is cast on using 8mm needles and worked in garter stitch for the border rows before transitioning to the main body fabric on 10mm needles. The body of the cardigan features a lace pattern that runs consistently throughout, giving the garment a delicate, textured appearance despite the chunky yarn weight. The lace pattern is maintained with care as shaping takes place, requiring the knitter to keep continuity of the pattern repeat while working increases and decreases.

Stitches and Techniques Used in the Cardigan

• Garter Stitch (G-st): Every row knitted; used for borders and edgings. This creates a flat, reversible fabric with a ridged texture that lies flat without curling, making it ideal for front bands and hems.
• 1x1 Rib: Worked by alternating knit and purl stitches across the row; used for neat, stretchy edgings. Row 1: *K1, P1, repeat from * to last stitch, K1. Row 2: P1, *K1, P1, repeat from * to end.
• Lace Pattern: A repeating decorative stitch pattern incorporating yarn forward (yfwd), slip 1, K1, pass slipped stitch over (s1, K1, psso), and K2tog (knit two together) to create eyelets and directional decreases. The lace pattern is worked over a set number of rows and repeats, with the specific placement of increases and decreases adjusted for each size.
• Stocking Stitch (St-St): Alternating knit and purl rows; used in certain sections of the garment for a smooth, classic fabric.
• Shaping: Worked using decrease and increase techniques including K2tog and s1, K1, psso for neat, directional shaping at armholes, neck